November 27, (THEWILL) – Bayelsa State Governor, Senator Douye Diri, has received the Torch of Unity, who landed in the State on a tour ahead of the commencement of the Delta 2022 National Sports Festival, which begins from November 28 to December 10.
The Torch of Unity arrived in Yenagoa, the Bayelsa State capital on Saturday, and was received amid a brief reception ceremony from Ekeki to the Peace Park.
The Governor, who received the flaming Torch at the Peace Park, charged the athletes to surpass the records set in the 2020 National Sports Festival in Benin City, Edo State, pointing out that he is committed to youth empowerment through sports.
Governor Diri, while appreciating the Federal Government for sustaining the initiative since its maiden edition in 1973, explained that sport has remained a unifying platform for Nigerians and the government would continue to invest in it.
The Bayelsa State helmsman stated that all outstanding stars that have written the name of the State in gold were discovered during the National Sports Festivals, which showed that the government’s investment in sports is yielding results.
He charged the state contingents to go to Asaba and display the virtues of understanding, oneness, peace and sportsmanship, and ensure that they return home with the trophy.
In his remark, the Coordinator of Torch of Unity and Deputy Director, Ministry of Youths and Sports, Chief Amaka Ashiofu, noted that the Torch of Unity signifies peace and unity for the country, stressing that sport is a tool that unites the world irrespective of their religion.
She thanked the Governor for his continuous support of sports development, which according to her, has attracted global attention to the state.
Also, Director of Sports, Bayelsa State Sports Council, Sir Braveman Wodi, remarked that the contingents would consolidate on the achievements of the last edition, stressing that the athletes are fully prepared for the competition.
About the Author
